Wayne Rooney: Plymouth boss reacts after some fans call for axe
Plymouth Argyle boss Wayne Rooney says he doesn’t take criticism “personally” after his Pilgrims’ another disappointing Championship defeat.
Rooney’s Argyle are bottom of the table, four points adrift of safety, and have not won any of their past nine games, losing six of them.
Pressure is mounting on the former Manchester United and England striker after visiting fans booed him and his players. Lost to Oxford 0-2 on Sunday.
“I think criticism is normal for the results we’re experiencing,” Rooney told BBC Radio Devon.
“You have to feel you can turn things around. I’m going to go back and watch the game, assess the game and prepare myself for Bristol (Manchester City).
“I understand (the fan reaction), I’ve been there as a youngster and I’ve been there as a fan when you want to see your team win.
“When you lose like we did, that frustration comes so I understand it, but I don’t take it personally.”
Plymouth have lost four of their last five games under Rooney and some Argyle fans chanted for Rooney to be sacked away from home during Sunday’s defeat.
The former England captain was appointed Plymouth manager in May, replacing Ian Foster who was sacked due to poor results.
The Pilgrims have won just four championship games in the league this season, drawn six, lost 13 and conceded 51 times.
When asked if he felt safe as manager, Rooney dismissed the question.
“It’s a board issue,” Rooney said. “I understand how football works so all I can do is continue to work as hard as I can.
“For all of us, we’re trying to do the right things and help us win games – unfortunately that’s not been the case the last few weeks.”
Plymouth will face Bristol City on January 1st.
